Program Notes

In February 2024, I was learning the Haydn D major piano sonata, Hob XVI: 37 for a competition. I was playing around with the opening when an idea came to mind based on the opening of the first movement. From there, I started working on expanding it, eventually including contorted versions of the themes from the second and third movements. After a 9 month hiatus from the piece, I came back to it in late December 2024. With a fresh look at the piece, I was able to quickly finish it in early January. While the piece is a clear paraphrase of Haydn's sonata, it is a very 21st century take that interweaves my characteristic dense harmonies and textures with the light clarity of my favorite classical period composer.